Taoiseach expects countries to follow Ireland in recognising state of Palestine

Simon Harris also denied Israeli claims that recognising Palestine would be either rewarding Hamas or jeopardising hostages being held in Gaza

Taoiseach Simon Harris rejected some Israeli characterisation of a phone call between himself and Israeli president Isaac Herzog. Picture: Eamonn Farrell / © RollingNews.ie

A number of countries are likely to follow Ireland when it recognises the state of Palestine in the coming days, the Taoiseach has said.

In Longford on Sunday, Simon Harris said Ireland will set out its position and processes in recognition in the "coming days", with recognition coming before the end of May. Government sources have said it is likely an announcement is made after Tuesday's Cabinet meeting.